Residents of Ode-Oriya community in Owo Local Government Area of Ondo State have celebrated the release of their traditional ruler, Chief Adeniyi Adelana, from the custody of suspected kidnappers after days of uncertainty.
The monarch, who serves as the Oloriya (Baale) of the community, regained his freedom several days after armed men reportedly stormed his residence at night and abducted him, leaving the community in shock.
His release was confirmed through a message circulated among residents, sparking jubilation after weeks of anxiety over his whereabouts.
During the attack, the monarch’s wife was reportedly shot and injured while attempting to prevent the gunmen from taking her husband away.
Following the abduction, operatives of the Ondo State Police Command, supported by local vigilantes, launched a search operation that eventually culminated in the monarch’s freedom. Community sources disclosed that he is currently receiving treatment at a medical facility and is said to be in stable condition.
Despite the development, apprehension persists over the reported disappearance of the individual who allegedly conveyed the ransom to the abductors. The courier was said to have failed to return after completing the assignment.
Although the report has fuelled fresh concerns among residents, security agencies have yet to confirm the alleged detention of the courier or disclose whether any ransom was paid before the monarch’s release.
As of the time of filing this report, the Ondo State Police Command had not issued an official statement on the matter. Residents have, however, appealed to security agencies to rescue anyone still in captivity and intensify efforts to arrest those behind the abduction, as concerns over kidnapping continue to grow across parts of the state.